East Midlands Airport is set to expand its service offerings significantly by 2026, introducing seven new routes and operators. This expansion reflects a strategic move to enhance travel options for passengers and boost the region’s connectivity.
New Routes and Operators
Starting in Easter 2024, SunExpress will launch its inaugural flights to Antalya, Türkiye. These flights will operate up to three times a week until October, and bookings are now available.
SunExpress is a collaboration between Lufthansa and Turkish Airlines. With the addition of East Midlands, it will operate from 14 airports across the UK and Ireland.
Jet2 Expands Vacation Offerings
Jet2 is contributing to the airport’s development by introducing five new destinations. This includes:
- Chania, Greece
- Thessaloniki, Greece
- Preveza, Greece
- Pula, Croatia
- Agadir, Morocco (available for winter travels)
Moreover, Jet2 has increased flight frequency to Jersey, ensuring travelers have more options to reach the Channel Islands, especially after the closure of Blue Islands.
TUI Returns with Popular Destinations
TUI will revive its twice-weekly service to Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, beginning this summer. This route has been absent for three years but is returning due to high customer demand. TUI has also reinstated its flights to:
- Burgas, Bulgaria
- Boa Vista, Cape Verde
Upgrades and Enhancements at East Midlands Airport
Travelers at East Midlands Airport can look forward to extensive improvements completed over the last two years. Key developments include:
- A renovated security hall featuring advanced scanners
- New and refurbished dining options
- Improved seating areas
- Enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity
- Water refill stations and electronic kiosks for customer service
- Upgraded Escape Lounge, along with new rapid drop-off arrangements
Additional upgrades are planned for this Easter, focusing on enhancing the immigration hall, arrivals experience, and offering new amenities such as sensory pods and a dedicated area for young travelers.
Future Outlook
Mike Grimes, Customer Services and Planning Director at East Midlands Airport, expressed optimism for summer 2026. He highlights the excitement of welcoming SunExpress and offering a wider range of destinations, ultimately aiming to improve the travel experience for all passengers.
With the anticipated addition of these new routes, East Midlands Airport will boast a total of 66 destinations by 2026, making it a key player in the regional travel market.
